Prof. Neculai Patriche | Aquaculture and fishing | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dr. Ing. Neculai Patriche is a distinguished Romanian scientist and academic with over four decades of experience in aquatic ecology, fisheries, and aquaculture. Currently serving as the Scientific Deputy Director at the Research-Development Institute for Aquatic Ecology, Fisheries and Aquaculture in Galați, he has previously held prominent roles including General Director and Scientific Secretary. A professor at “Dunărea de Jos” University of Galați for nearly two decades, he has guided doctoral research and developed academic curricula in aquaculture. His international contributions include collaborations with the National Museum of Natural History in Paris and various European institutions. Recognized for his leadership and research, Prof. Patriche has actively influenced national and regional policies on sustainable fisheries. His work integrates ecological sustainability with innovation in aquaculture technologies, earning him numerous appointments, awards, and editorial responsibilities. He is also a corresponding member of the Romanian Academy of Agricultural and Forestry Sciences.

Profile

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🎓 Education

Prof. Neculai Patriche earned his PhD in Fisheries Technology in 1998 from the “Dunărea de Jos” University of Galați, following an engineering degree in 1981 in Food Technology and Fisheries Techniques from the same institution. His academic training is supplemented by several prestigious international certifications: advanced training in sturgeon biology (France, 1996), fishery management (UK, 1993), sturgeon aquaculture (Germany, 1992), and sustainable marine fisheries management (2006). He also received training in information technology (1979–1980) and scientific research in fisheries and aquaculture through various national programs (1985, 1987, 2001). These educational experiences laid the groundwork for his multidisciplinary expertise, which combines technological innovation with ecological conservation. Fluent in English and French, he has also pursued studies in environmental legislation and planning, equipping him with the skills needed to lead complex interdisciplinary research and policy programs across Europe and beyond.

🧪 Experience

Prof. Patriche’s professional journey began in 1981 as a junior engineer and evolved into a senior scientific and academic leadership career. He served as a researcher and project leader at several national institutions, rising to the role of Scientific Secretary (1992–2005) and then General Director (2005–2020) of the Research-Development Institute for Aquatic Ecology, Fisheries, and Aquaculture. Since 2020, he has served as Scientific Deputy Director, ensuring strategic coordination of research programs. Parallel to his research career, he was a professor at “Dunărea de Jos” University of Galați (2001–2020), mentoring doctoral students and shaping fisheries education in Romania. Internationally, he lectured at the National Museum of Natural History in Paris and collaborated with marine research bodies in Germany and France. His vast career reflects deep engagement in both applied science and academic education, contributing significantly to national and European strategies on aquatic resource management and sustainable aquaculture.

🏅 Awards and Honors

Prof. Patriche’s outstanding contributions have earned him numerous honors. He was named Corresponding Member (2018) and Associate Member (2010) of the Romanian Academy of Agricultural and Forestry Sciences, acknowledging his influence in agricultural sciences. He served as an evaluator for Romania’s Ministry of Research and Innovation (2019–2020), and as an expert for the UN–FAO’s High-Level Panel of Experts on Food Security (2010). He has chaired national symposiums and founded the Aquatic Resources Evaluation Unit in Pojejena (2008). He’s also a founding member of the NACEE (Network of Aquaculture Centres in Central and Eastern Europe). As guest editor for prestigious journals like Sustainability and Fishes, he contributed to shaping the scientific narrative on sustainable aquaculture. His recognition extends internationally, including invitations from scientific bodies in Moldova, Germany, and France, reflecting his global standing in fisheries science, ecological research, and sustainable development.

🔬 Research Focus

Prof. Patriche’s research is centered on the sustainable management of aquatic ecosystems, aquaculture technologies, and fisheries ecology. He has extensively studied the conservation of aquatic biodiversity, particularly sturgeon populations, and developed methodologies for their artificial reproduction and habitat rehabilitation. His work contributes to national and European strategies aimed at restoring natural aquatic habitats and ensuring ecological balance. He coordinates interdisciplinary projects evaluating the status of Romania’s natural fish resources and has contributed to developing innovative aquaculture systems aligned with EU environmental directives. His editorial contributions to high-impact journals and special issues on marine biodiversity, dietary supplementation in aquaculture, and fisheries management underline his commitment to ecological sustainability. With a strong background in applied research, Prof. Patriche integrates policy, science, and innovation to shape national strategies and promote responsible aquaculture practices that enhance food security and preserve aquatic ecosystems.

✅ Conclusion